Ontario Construction News staff writer
The federal government announced an investment of over $4 million through the Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI) to build 38 homes in Sault Ste. Marie.
Funding will go to three separate projects:
- $2.4 million for eight homes at the Frontenac Street Townhouse Development; owned and operated by Batchewana First Nation.
- $1.3 million for the Sacred Heart project, a 22-home development located at 721 Wellington Street East; owned and operated by the Sault Ste. Marie Housing Corporation.
- $266,637 for eight homes for the Steelton Centre; owned and operated by the Sault Ste. Marie Housing Corporation.
“Safe and affordable housing is the cornerstone of a thriving community, and the City of Sault Ste. Marie is committed to ambitiously addressing the housing crisis by implementing policies aimed at increasing the local stock and advocating for funding from our government partners,” said Mayor Matthew Shoemaker.
Launched in 2020, the Rapid Housing Initiative is part of the Government of Canada’s $82-billion National Housing Strategy.
The initiative provides capital contributions to facilitate the rapid construction of new housing and/or acquisition of existing buildings for the purpose of rehabilitation or conversion to permanent affordable, supportive, or transitional housing.
“We’re all aware that homelessness is a growing issue in our community, and it’s becoming increasingly challenging to address,” Stephanie Hopkin, Board Chair, Sault Ste. Marie Housing Corporation. “Factors like housing affordability, mental health issues, addictions, and poverty are putting more people at risk. Our transitional bridge units offer a safe space where individuals can access services that promote better health, job opportunities, and long-term housing stability.
“Housing is a critical component of federal policy in Canada and intersects with various aspects of social and economic development. The DSSMSSAB appreciates the federal government’s multifaceted approach to housing and demonstrates its importance in shaping the nation’s overall well-being and prosperity.”